Mobile Health Apps: A Glimpse into Ethiopian University Students' Habits

In the heart of Ethiopia, Debre Markos University is buzzing with health science students who are increasingly turning to mobile health apps for managing their well-being. With smartphones becoming a staple among the youth, these apps offer a flexible way to promote healthy lifestyles without the constraints of time and location. However, the usage pattern among university students in Ethiopia remains largely unexplored. This study aimed to shed light on this trend.

Conducted between April and June 2022, the study surveyed 423 health science students using a systematic sampling method. The data was collected through self-administered questionnaires, and SPSS software was employed for analysis. The findings? Over half of the students had installed and used 1-3 health-related apps. The frequency of use varied, with some using apps daily and others rarely. Interestingly, the study revealed that ease of use, skill level, and trust were significant factors influencing app usage. Students reported that lack of knowledge about app benefits and inadequate time were the main barriers to using these apps.

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